Rafizi: I didn’t advise public to stop buying chicken

Rafizi: I didn’t advise public to stop buying chicken


Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli has refuted claims that he suggested people cease buying chicken to help stop inflation-related price increases.

He was responding to the criticisms received after he was quoted as saying, "Normally, if the price of chicken is too expensive, don't buy it," at a live address two days ago (Dec 23).

Taking to Twitter, the Pandan MP today reiterated that he was instead encouraging a collective effort by the public and government to battle inflation.

“I was talking about the need to deal with demand and supply chain so that consumer demands that are more elastic become a force to influence the prices of goods,” said Rafizi (above).



He mentioned that the supply chain must be improved to stop monopolies and in order for supply continuity to not be disrupted, the government needs to implement price control on a long-term basis.

Rafizi cited previous issues to support his claim that he has never "run away" from heated debates if doing so may lead to a solution.

This includes the criticism he received in March for stating that Pakatan Harapan would need to win more than 80 parliamentary seats to emerge as the largest bloc following the 15th general election (GE15).

Previously, Rafizi said consumers share some of the blame for the ongoing rise in food prices.

He also said that while the government will play its role to address the supply side, the demand side should be tackled as well.

Rafizi claimed that if consumers choose not to use or purchase items with inflated prices, it will give suppliers and business owners the notion that they shouldn't arbitrarily raise prices.

The PKR leader also announced that the government would implement a new system for targeted subsidies on the basis of economic necessity, possibly by 2023.